Hard-up commuters get on their bikes

THE number of people cycling to work is soaring as cash-strapped commuters strive to save money.

Over 10 years, commuting by bike has increased by 110,000 or 17 per cent to 760,000 in England and Wales, an analysis of the latest census figures reveals. The boom – which also reflects health concerns – comes as the Government’s popular Cycle to Work scheme offers a 42 per cent tax discount for buying a bike.

Other factors include the Olympic success of Bradley Wiggins, Victoria Pendleton and Laura Trott – and many councils encouraging pedal power to reduce congestion and pollution.

The figures reveal cycling is no longer just for a minority and show how planners have to consider all road users when looking at commuting habits.

Keith Scott

The 2011 census statistics were analysed by bicycle seller Halfords. Its spokesman Keith Scott said: “The figures reveal cycling is no longer just for a minority and show how planners have to consider all road users when looking at commuting habits.”

Inner London has seen the biggest rise in bike use, with the numbers cycling to work up 155 per cent in 10 years.

The next biggest rises are in Brighton, Bristol, Manchester and Newcastle upon Tyne.